The Fairytale Road Trip That'll Lead You To Some Of Tennessee's Most Magical Places

The Volunteer State is known for its natural beauty, but what most folks don’t know is that sometimes that beauty has created downright magical places in Tennessee. The rolling hills, the rough caverns hewn from the Cumberland Plateau, the morning light from the peak of the Great Smoky Mountains… the beauty of the Volunteer State is almost unbelievable. If you’re looking to experience the stunning heart of Tennessee, you simply must take this fairytale road trip. You’ll visit a handful of the sweetest spots in the state, and you’ll leave with memories that are downright magical.

If you’re looking for a link to our road trip plan, you can find it right here.

GoogleMaps

Here's a quick overview, just so you know where we're going. We'll be staying on the eastern edge of the state, with an emphasis on what's best for summer and winter adventures!

Knoxville, TN, USA

Knoxville - Wikipedia

Knoxville is the perfect place to begin an adventure! It's a small town with a big heart, and it boasts everything from the historic Market Square to the beautifully preserved Old City district. The city sits right at the mouth of the Great Smoky Mountains and is a perfect place for relaxation and play. We'd recommend walking the riverfront or catching a show at the Tennessee Theater downtown. ​​Knoxville has been recognized in the past as one of the best destinations in the United States, and it's easy to see why.

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Watauga Lake, Tennessee, USA

Decaseconds - Flickr

Watauga Lake is the answer to a magical, hidden gem of a place that's tucked away on the northeast edge of the state. It's where you can cuddle up in a cabin during the chilly months or hike the mountainous regions during the summer. Find mermaids in the water, or simply float to your heart's content on the crystal clear Tennessee reservoir. Watauga Lake was completed in 1948 and has been a favorite vacation destination ever since. See for yourself why ​​Watauga Lake is worthy of a visit to magical places in Tennessee.

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Roan Mountain, TN 37687, USA

Jim Dollar - Flickr

Roan Mountain is located in Carter County, Tennessee, and is a majestic, moody mountaintop that's protected by the state. Roan Mountain State Park takes up more than 2,000 acres of lushly forested, richly flowered natural space. It's a great spot for a vigorous hike in the clean mountain air or a leisurely picnic. When you need a break from hiking, see why just outside ​​Roan Mountain is one of the most charming towns you can ever imagine.

Clingmans Dome, North Carolina 28713, USA

Timothy Wildey - Flickr

Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and it delivers views like nowhere else in the state. The lookout spot is arrestingly futuristic, and at an elevation of 6,643 feet, you'll find yourself at the highest point in the entire Appalachian Trail AND the state of Tennessee. There's nothing more magical than being high amidst the clouds. Read more about the stunning Clingman's Dome overlook in this article.

Cades Cove, Tennessee, USA

Tim Lumley - Flickr

Cades Cove is known for its historic expanse, and for its legacy as one of the first spots to be settled in the state. The isolated valley is great for hiking, driving the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop, or visiting one of the numerous horse stables for a ride. Cades Cove is the most popular destination in the Smokies, so make sure you visit during the week if you can. There's nothing more magical than having this stunning natural wonder to yourself.

Loudon, TN 37774, USA

GoogleMaps

Sweet Loudon, Tennessee is the answer to small-town charm in Tennessee. The city is home to a mere 5,381 folks, and it has become a destination for its location along the waterfront. Come for the hospitality, stay for the community. You'll be warmly welcomed to this little town, a time capsule in itself. Even the ice cream shop in Loudon is magical.

Have you been to any of these magical places in Tennessee? Are there others you think should be part of the road trip? Let us know in the comments below. We would love to hear from you!

You can learn more about the beautiful state of Tennessee with a visit to our site archives. Happy adventuring!